Avery Barnett-Dacey, Equilibrium (ANIMAL 2024)

An Echidna at Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve - the title 'Equilibrium' comes from the balanced rocks the Echidna is posed next too - I saw these rocks just moments before coming to the Echidna, when seeing the stone formation I found myself reflecting on ideas of Balance and repose having recently shifted to an 85mm portrait lens from a 500mm Catadioptric lens. I found myself in a place of awareness within the space of a perfect opportunity. I spent a decent amount of time sitting with and photographing the Echidna as they were unfazed by my presence - it wasn't until after the Echidna got a drink of water and started heading along the path that they walked past this formation.

Images have been resized for web display, which may cause some loss of image quality. Note: Original high-resolution images are used for judging.